Vibration and Roughness

Vibration, roughness, tramp, shimmy and thump may be caused by excessive tire or wheel runout, worn or cupped tires or wheel and tire unbalance. These conditions may also be caused by rough or undulating road surfaces. Driving the vehicle on different types of road surfaces will indicate if the road surfaces are actually causing the condition. Do not immediately suspect the tires when attempting to diagnose a vibration concern. Other sources of vibration include:
^ Loose or worn wheel bearings.
^ Loose or worn suspension or steering components.
^ Worn upper shock absorber bushings
^ Brake rotor or drum runout
^ Worn or damaged driveshaft slip yoke.
^ Excessive disc brake rotor runout.
^ Loose engine or transmission supports.
^ Engine driven accessories.
1. Begin by performing a road test. Road Test
2. Do a thorough inspection of vehicle. Include all suspension components and mounting points to identify any that are worn, damaged or loose. Repair as necessary. Symptom Related Diagnostic Procedures
3. Proceed to diagnosis by symptom. Symptom Related Diagnostic Procedures

NOTE: If a suspension part has been damaged, be sure to check the underbody dimensions of the car. If the underbody dimensions are not in alignment, the car must be straightened before the suspension parts are reinstalled. If a rear suspension component becomes bent or damaged, do not attempt to straighten it. Always replace the component with a new part.